Quick Analysis: O’s Acquisition of Julio Lugo

Julio Lugo

Has there been a more tell-tale sign of the O’s confidence in Brian Roberts’ health than the recent acquisition of Julio Lugo?

Lugo, the 34-year old infielder from the Cardinals, was traded to the Birds for a player to be named later.  The utility man batted .280 in 2009, with three HRs, 21 RBI and nine SBs in 88 games for both Boston and St. Louis, and now he finds himself in a similar role in Baltimore.  With the middle infield consisting of starters Cesar Izturis and Roberts, it is without a doubt that Lugo will be the premier bench player for the O’s in 2010.  This same middle infield, though, is the primary reason why the O’s seized the utility infielder.

With B-Rob’s status for Opening Week still in question (although he has said that he will be ready for Opening Day), the need for a consistent backup was in order.  With youngster Robert Andino the only true day-to-day option at the position, the front office apparently did not feel overly confident with this factor.  To put it simply, the Lugo acquisition was for one primary reason:  The team officials aren’t confident that Roberts will be able to maintain his health.

With this move, the O’s are hoping to receive an option in the infield that will provide the team with depth if B-Rob were to go down with the injury bug.  Besides, it’s not like the O’s got him for a whole lot anyway (Boston is paying for Lugo’s salary, and a PTBNL is never someone of any importance to the organization.).